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Business & Tech

5 Staycations for Spring and Summer

Marple Newtown Patch has some inexpensive, creative ideas for your next vacation right in your backyard.

Patch Picks highlights both editor and reader picks of great local businesses, destinations, services, organizations, ways to spend a day off, and more. This week, we’re talking about staycations.

With the economy still on the shaky side, many of us have doubled up on work in order to rebound financially, or to have the extra cash to treat ourselves once in a while. A lot of people have put off extravagant vacations like tours overseas, even week-long trips to the shore. 

Instead, the staycation has become quite popular in the past few years. Rather than travel to an exotic island, or spend a lot of money on a beach house, vacationers have thought outside the box to plan a fun, relaxing time without breaking the bank. There are a lot of things to do that you may not have thought of, and they are right here in our backyards, or a stone’s throw away. Marple Newtown Patch asked around town, and has rounded up five ideas for your spring or summer staycation.

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Backyard Campout–Whether you have an acre of land, or a smaller backyard, go ahead and pitch a tent or two, set up a portable grille or fire pit, and prepare some lawn games, such as volleyball or badminton. Set an activities agenda as if you were really away on vacation. Gather the family, and neighbors and friends if your space allows, for a day filled with games and a big cookout. Go on a group nature walk in your yard, or neighborhood. When the sun goes down, roast marshmallows for s’mores, tell stories around the fire pit, and gaze at the stars. Involve backyard campers of all ages by setting up the tents and games, preparing the meals and cleaning up.

Day at the Park–If you’d rather leave your home for your staycation, a day at the park is always an enjoyable option, especially in nice weather. Pack up a few coolers with burgers, hotdogs, drinks and snacks. Bring some balls and other games, a blanket or two, and you’re all set. has something for everyone. Public use areas are open daily from sunrise to sunset. There are hundreds of picnic tables, and each area is equipped with restrooms and charcoal grills. Many of the picnic areas have fields for sporting activities. There are playgrounds, as well as, hiking, biking and walking trails. You can go horseback riding, fishing, or just take a stroll through the formal gardens. Check out more details on Ridley Creek, and Pennsylvania’s other state parks here or refer to our kid-friendly review on local parks in our area .

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Brandywine Valley Wine Trail–If you enjoy walking the rolling hills of beautiful estate vineyards, and tasting many unique different types of wine, the Wine Trail is definitely the perfect way to spend a day, a few days, even a week. You’ll find eight wineries on the trail, spanning across scenic southeastern Pennsylvania between Philadelphia and Lancaster. They are all within a 50-mile radius, and include Longwood Gardens, Winterthur Museum & Country Estate and the Brandywine River Museum. It can be a romantic date idea, or make it a group date and grab some friends. Bring a picnic lunch, go on a tour, and taste a variety of wines in each vineyard’s cellar. Read here for more information.

Day at the Spa–With all of the work and chores we face every day, some rest and relaxation may be the right answer for a staycation. Why not spend the day at a spa? There are many full-service spas in the area that can cater to your every need. Take in a hot stone massage, European facial, spa manicure and pedicure, and have your hair shampooed and styled. Feel and look like a million bucks. Many spas offer special discount packages, and there are options for men, teens, and groups too.

(Marple Newtown Patch Picks recently highlighted the area’s top five spas. Read for more details.)

Hotel Stay–Several staycationers mentioned an overnight or weekend stay at a nearby hotel. While it may seem strange to pay for a room when you live so close, there are actually many benefits, starting with the absence of housework. Plus, think about all the amenities a hotel offers that you may not have at home like room service, meals prepared for you, and a king-sized bed outfitted with premium bedding and pillows. Many have  access to a health spa, pool and sauna, or a sundeck where you can bring a good book, soak up some rays and enjoy a cocktail. If you’re in the mood to just relax and veg out, you can rent a movie on the hotel TV and lay in your comfy hotel robe. If you’re in the mood for a casual bite to eat and live entertainment, hotels usually have restaurants and lounge acts. The best part is, when you’re ready to go, your room is a few steps away, and there’s no cleaning up to fuss about. Research different hotel deals and amenities online at travel Web sites like hotels.com or expedia.com.

Whether you’re checking into a hotel, visiting an outdoor attraction, or staying at home, one word of advice from seasoned staycationers is in order to get the most out of this time off, it’s suggested to schedule your time off so you feel like you are really on vacation.

As difficult as it might be since you are close to home, don’t call into work and don’t get caught up with chores around the house. Be sure to kick back, and enjoy your time off with your loved ones. 

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